In the political whirlwind of Washington, Francis Underwood, also known as Frank, has served in Congress for 22 years as the House Majority Whip. Frank sees his role as akin to that of a plumber unclogging drains—working behind the scenes to keep the Democratic-majority House functioning smoothly, all for the sake of his party’s interests.
His wife, Claire, is an intelligent and striking woman with ambitions and a career of her own, yet she always prioritizes her husband’s political journey. Throughout Frank’s career, Claire has been not only his emotional anchor but also a key force behind his rise. However, when Frank’s political ambitions are thwarted, cracks begin to form in their relationship.
At the 2013 New Year’s Eve gala, the incoming President Garrett Walker and Vice President Jim Matthews are the center of attention. But in Frank’s eyes, these politicians are merely stepping stones for his own ascent. His carefully laid political plans are shattered by Garrett’s betrayal, leaving Frank seething with anger and disappointment.
Linda Vasquez, Garrett’s Chief of Staff, is seen by Frank as little more than a White House gatekeeper. Yet, it is this seemingly insignificant figure who exposes Frank’s political machinations at a critical moment, plunging him into a storm of public scrutiny.
Frank had originally planned to solidify his influence by manipulating Michael Kern, the anticipated nominee for Secretary of State, but his strategy backfires unexpectedly. Forced to recalibrate, he adopts a fallback plan and begins searching for a replacement. His attention turns to Catherine Durant, a senator who had once opposed Garrett, now emerging as Frank’s ideal candidate.
Meanwhile, Zoe Barnes, a rookie reporter at theWashington Herald, is digging for political scoops. Eager to write impactful stories yet constrained by her newspaper’s conventions, she takes a risk by accompanying a government employee to a performance at the National Performing Arts Center. There, she catches Frank eyeing her—a moment that sparks an idea. Sensing an opportunity, Zoe decides to use her charm and wit to get closer to him.
Under the push from Chief of Staff Linda, an education reform bill becomes a central issue in Congress. Frank understands the bill’s significance and recognizes that its drafter, Donald Blythe’s left-leaning stance, could complicate its passage. Rather than intervening directly, Frank works behind the scenes, maneuvering to secure the bill’s approval during the vote.
Yet, things do not go as planned. SanCorp withdraws its donation after Frank fails to secure the Secretary of State position, forcing Claire to lay off staff and explore overseas projects. At the same time, Frank must contend with Zoe’s looming presence and the brewing scandal involving Peter Russo. As the political pressure mounts, Frank finds himself facing challenges like never before.
In the end, through carefully orchestrated political maneuvering, Frank successfully elevates Catherine Durant to the position of Secretary of State. But this victory comes at a great cost.